Fire tax vote delayed in Ascension Parish

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GALVEZ - Ascension Parish will have to wait a few more months before voters will decide if the Fire Protection District No. 1 will get more money.

The proposed 15 mill property tax was supposed to be on a December ballot, but instead will be held until a May election.

The tax will increase the number of paid fire fighters in the district to 39 and allow the district to repair and replace older equipment.

Supporters of the tax say without it, the fire district could lose its excellent insurance rating, which would lead to an increase in home insurance cost.

"I know if they can get their own equipment and get a full time person, plus it'll keep the insurance rating up, that's gonna benefit me in the long run, so I don't mind paying a tax up front," said Randy Moore, who said he wouldn't normally support a tax boost.

The tax would also include a parcel fee of $35 for residential plots and $100 for business. It's expected to generate about $3 million a year.